An attorney, mental health professional, or other person who participates in consent procedures with and for the psychiatric patient.
A person who helps patients with their complaints and problems with medical care and hospital and health care services and with the protection of their rights. The field is called “patient advocacy,” one area of health advocacy.
A person who ensures that a patient is served adequately by the health care system.
An individual, such as an attorney, friend, nurse, ombudsman, physician, or social worker, who pleads for and preserves a patient’s rights to health care. Patient advocates address many common and important health care issues, including the right to access a health care provider, the right to obtain confidential care, and the right for the patient to work after diagnosis or treatment.